With a sudden burst of power, Xalvar lashed outward, his blade radiating with jagged dark energy. The force rippled through the air like a thunderclap, driving Hiro back several staggering steps across the blood-soaked ground. Dust and embers swirled between them as Xalvar spun, his tattered wings unfurling wide in desperation, their edges flickering with malevolent fire. His gaze darted toward the shadows at the edge of the battlefield. He wanted to retreat, to vanish into the veil where the remaining devils could regroup.
But Hiro was faster.
Even battered, his body trembling from exhaustion, his movements blurred with raw willpower. His bloodied figure appeared before Xalvar in an instant, blocking his path. His sword rose high, its edge burning with the faint light of his dwindling mana. "You're not running!" Hiro roared, his voice raw, throat torn from shouting and pain, yet carrying the fire of a soldier who refused to yield.
